Ajit Pawar was one of Maharashtra’s most influential and well-known political leaders, remembered for his long-standing role in state politics and his significant contributions to governance. Known for his sharp political strategies, administrative experience, and strong grassroots connection, Ajit Pawar served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, making him the longest-serving person in that position.
This article covers Ajit Pawar’s biography, including his family background, sons, daughter, age, religion, net worth, political journey, and the latest news surrounding his tragic passing.
Ajit Pawar Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ajit Anantrao Pawar |
| Date of Birth | 22 July 1959 |
| Age (2026) | 66 Years |
| Birthplace | Deolali Pravara, Ahmednagar |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Wife | Sunetra Pawar |
| Sons | Jay Pawar, Parth Pawar |
| Daughter | Supriya Sule |
| Net Worth | Approx. Rs 124 Crore |
| Position Held | Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra |
| Political Party | NCP (major career) |
| Passed Away | January 2026 |
Who Was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Anantrao Pawar was an Indian politician who played a central role in Maharashtra’s political landscape for decades. He served as the 8th Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, alongside Eknath Shinde under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis from December 2024 until his passing in January 2026.
Ajit Pawar was widely respected for his deep understanding of rural development, irrigation policies, and cooperative movements in Maharashtra. His political career spanned more than four decades, during which he held several key ministerial positions and leadership roles.
Ajit Pawar Age and Early Life
Ajit Pawar was born on 22 July 1959 in Deolali Pravara, located in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra.
As of 2026, Ajit Pawar was 66 years old.
He spent his early years in Deolali Pravara, where he attended school. However, life took a challenging turn when his father passed away. Ajit had to discontinue college studies in order to support his family, which shaped his resilience and sense of responsibility from a young age.
Ajit Pawar Family Background
Ajit Pawar came from a prominent political family in Maharashtra.
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Father: Anantrao Pawar
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Mother: Ashatai Pawar
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Uncle: Sharad Pawar (Founder and senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party)
Ajit Pawar was the nephew of Sharad Pawar, one of the most influential political figures in India and a former Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Despite being part of a powerful family, Ajit carved out his own identity through years of political struggle, grassroots involvement, and leadership roles.
Ajit Pawar Religion
Ajit Pawar followed Hinduism, which is the religion practiced by the Pawar family. He was deeply connected with the cultural traditions of Maharashtra and often participated in local religious and social events throughout his political life.
Ajit Pawar Wife and Personal Life
Ajit Pawar was married to Sunetra Pawar, who was known for maintaining a relatively low public profile while supporting her husband’s political career.
Their family remained an important part of Ajit Pawar’s personal strength and public image.
Ajit Pawar Son, Daughter, and Children
Ajit Pawar was a family man and had children who are also known in political and social circles.
Ajit Pawar Sons
Ajit Pawar had two sons:
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Jay Pawar
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Parth Pawar
Parth Pawar, in particular, has been active in politics and is often seen as a youth leader connected to the Pawar legacy.
Ajit Pawar Daughter
Ajit Pawar’s daughter is:
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Supriya Sule
Supriya Sule is also a prominent political figure and Member of Parliament, widely respected for her work and leadership.
Ajit Pawar Education
Ajit Pawar’s educational qualification was up to HSC (Higher Secondary Certificate). He attended Maharashtra Education Secondary High School in Baramati.
Though he could not complete higher education, his political understanding and administrative expertise made him one of the most experienced leaders in Maharashtra.
Ajit Pawar Political Career Journey
Ajit Pawar’s political career began in the early 1980s, inspired by his uncle Sharad Pawar’s leadership.
Early Political Entry (1980s)
In 1982, Ajit Pawar entered politics through the cooperative sector, where he was elected to the board of a cooperative sugar factory.
This early involvement gave him strong connections with rural communities, farmers, and cooperative institutions.
Rise in the 1990s
Ajit Pawar gained prominence when he became chairman of the Pune District Central Cooperative Bank in 1991, serving for nearly 16 years.
His major breakthrough came in 1991 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha from Baramati constituency. However, he vacated the seat for his uncle Sharad Pawar.
Despite stepping aside, Ajit Pawar continued building his own political path.
He was later elected multiple times from the Baramati Assembly constituency, becoming one of the most dominant regional leaders in Maharashtra.
Ministerial Roles and Governance
Ajit Pawar served as Minister of State for Agriculture and Power in the early 1990s.
Over the years, he handled major departments such as:
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Irrigation
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Rural Development
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Water Resources
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Planning and Power
From 2004 to 2010, he was a cabinet minister under several Chief Ministers including Vilasrao Deshmukh and Ashok Chavan.
His work in irrigation and rural infrastructure made him a powerful force in state governance.
Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra
Ajit Pawar served as Deputy Chief Minister for six non-consecutive terms, under various governments including:
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Prithviraj Chavan
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Devendra Fadnavis
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Uddhav Thackeray
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Eknath Shinde
This made him the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra’s history.
Political Shift and Fallout
One of the most dramatic moments in Maharashtra politics occurred in November 2019, when Ajit Pawar briefly aligned with the BJP, breaking away from the NCP.
Though the government collapsed within 80 hours, the incident became a major turning point in his political career.
He later returned to the NCP and continued to remain a central figure in Maharashtra politics.
Ajit Pawar Net Worth
Ajit Pawar was considered one of the wealthiest political leaders in Maharashtra.
Net Worth
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Estimated Assets: Rs 124 crore
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Liabilities: Rs 21 crore
His wealth grew significantly over a decade, from around Rs 10 crore in 2009 to over Rs 100 crore by 2019.
His net worth reflected his long-standing influence in cooperative institutions, politics, and family-held assets.
Latest News: Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Tragedy
In January 2026, the nation was shocked by reports that Ajit Pawar passed away in a tragic plane crash at Baramati Airport, Maharashtra.
According to DGCA updates cited by ANI, Ajit Pawar was traveling in a Learjet 45XR business jet (VT-SSK), along with personnel and crew members.
The aircraft reportedly veered off the runway, crashed, and exploded. Sadly, no one onboard survived.
This tragic incident marked the end of an era in Maharashtra politics.
Ajit Pawar Legacy
Ajit Pawar will be remembered as:
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A powerful strategist
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A mass leader in Baramati
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A key figure in Maharashtra governance
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The longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister
His decades-long political journey left a lasting impact on the state’s development, cooperative sector, and leadership dynamics.
FAQs About Ajit Pawar
Q1. Who was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Pawar was an Indian politician and the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Q2. What was Ajit Pawar’s age?
Ajit Pawar was 66 years old in 2026.
Q3. Who is Ajit Pawar’s wife?
Ajit Pawar was married to Sunetra Pawar.
Q4. How many children did Ajit Pawar have?
Ajit Pawar had three children: sons Jay and Parth Pawar, and daughter Supriya Sule.
Q5. What was Ajit Pawar’s net worth?
Ajit Pawar’s net worth was estimated at around Rs 124 crore.
Q6. How did Ajit Pawar pass away?
Ajit Pawar passed away in January 2026 in a tragic plane crash at Baramati Airport.
Conclusion
Ajit Pawar’s biography reflects the journey of a leader who shaped Maharashtra politics for decades. From his early days in the cooperative sector to becoming the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister, his career was filled with achievements, controversies, and powerful leadership moments.
His tragic passing in January 2026 left a deep void in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Ajit Pawar will always be remembered for his influence, governance experience, and lasting legacy in the state.
Disclaimer:This biography has been prepared using information sourced from the public domain and other credible outlets. It is meant for informational use only. Accuracy is a priority; however, changes in facts or perspectives may arise as new details emerge.
